Luxembourg’s Ministry of Health and Social Security and the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Viticulture will mark European Antibiotic Awareness Day in the Grand Duchy on Tuesday 18 November 2025, coinciding with the launch of World Antimicrobial Awareness Week, taking place from Tuesday 18 to Monday 24 November 2025.
This initiative aims to raise awareness among the public, healthcare professionals, veterinarians and animal owners about the risks associated with the inappropriate use of antibiotics, which contributes to the rise of antimicrobial resistance (AMR). AMR is among the ten most serious global health threats and is estimated to cause 35,000 deaths each year in Europe. According to the ministries, excessive and inappropriate use of antibiotics in humans and animals remains a major driver of resistance.
The 2025 report on Monitoring of Antibiotic Consumption, Antimicrobial Resistance and the Presence of Antibiotic Residues in Luxembourg shows that total antibiotic consumption in human healthcare in 2023 was slightly above the European average and has been increasing since 2021. While most resistance percentages in Luxembourg remain below the European average, several have risen compared with 2022. The report also indicates that Luxembourg is among the European countries with the lowest antibiotic sales in animals, with surveillance systems for food-producing animals and food safety performing favourably relative to neighbouring countries
Minister Martine Deprez recalled that “a prudent use of antibiotics is essential to preserve their long-term effectiveness.” She also highlighted the importance of continuing efforts to reduce the use of critical antibiotics and to improve the monitoring of usage data.
Luxembourg continues to follow a strengthened “One Health” approach, integrating human, animal and environmental health. This strategy helps better understand links between sectors and target prevention measures more effectively. The ministries noted that individuals can contribute by using antibiotics only when prescribed by a doctor, respecting dosage and treatment duration, avoiding the reuse or sharing of leftover antibiotics, practising good hand hygiene, keeping vaccinations up to date and following safe food practices.
Further information is available in the 2025 report on antibiotic consumption, resistance and residues in Luxembourg, as well as through the national awareness campaign on responsible antibiotic use.
